A 209-acre parcel of farmland at the intersection of Highway 166 and Highway 1—less than a mile from the heart of Guadalupe—still stands undeveloped. But the land inches closer to breaking ground as Guadalupe city officials make final resolutions and adjustments to the project this month. The DJ Farms project was first introduced to the […]
KRISTINA SEWELL
Athlete of the Week: Brooke Butler, Righetti
A high school athlete with exceptional athletic abilities is always someone to watch. But a high school student with tremendous talent and a mature head on her shoulders is even more amazing. The Righetti High School volleyball team is lucky enough to have one such rarely packaged player. Senior Brooke Butler’s love and passion for […]
Zip down to wine country
Living on the Central Coast, we don’t have to look very hard to find something to keep us entertained. With its pristine beaches, quaint towns, and plethora of wineries, a good time is never far away. Take, for instance, our neighbors to the north of the Cuesta Grade at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch. At […]
Spotlight on: Bill’s Take Out
Often, the progressive flow of enterprise propels owners to make their businesses bigger and better. But sometimes, success comes down to remembering to “keep it simple, stupid.” That creed has perhaps been the key to success for iconic Santa Maria restaurant Bill’s Take Out, one of the few remaining classic drive-ins on the Central Coast. […]
Athlete(s) of the Week: Kacy Ortiz and Alissa Laventes
The age-old adage “good things come in pairs” will never get old, especially with such proof in the dynamic tennis duo from Orcutt Academy. Kacy Ortiz and Alissa Laventes—both going into their senior year of high school—bring unique talents to their tennis partnership. Kacy, fearless and outspoken, adds power and passion to the court. Alissa, […]
Athlete of the Week: Troy Prober
After losing their season opener to Villa Park, Righetti High School’s varsity football team got off to the right start in its second game for 2012, smashing Cabrillo 55-14 on Aug. 31. Starting out his senior year, and his third season as a varsity player, quarterback Troy Prober helped carry the Warriors to a win […]
Spotlight on: Coastal Casino Dealing Academy
Casinos are chaotic hubs of activity and entertainment—the cha-ching of the machines, the occasional frustrated cry of a guest who bet too much, or people who haven’t slept for 10 hours straight. At the focal point of these casinos is the gambling. Card tables give us a variety of paths to choose from; behind them […]
Keep on DREAMin’ on
On Aug. 28, approximately 500 local residents and families gathered at the Allan Hancock College Marian Theater for a “deferred action” workshop with U.S. Rep. Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara). Capps, United States Citizenship and Immigration Service officials (USCIS), and representatives from local nonprofits attended to help students and families navigate the deferred action application process. […]
All crossed up
Day 4 Workout: The Filthy Fifty. Complete 50 of each of the following: box jumps, jumping pull-ups, kettle bell swings, walking lunges, knees to elbows, push press, sit-ups, wall balls, burpees, and double unders. “Come on girl, push through!” I hear my partner and mentor yell. “You can do it!” I finish my last jump […]
Spotlight on: Ai Love Sushi
Sushi has been a popular dish for centuries in Japan, but its popularity in the Western world has increased steadily in recent years. It’s a favorite form of cuisine here on the Central Coast, too. With his passion for sushi and cooking in general, Steve Jeon decided to bring a taste of Japan to small-town […]
Athlete of the Week: Elizabeth Hawes
Triathlons. They’re the ultimate physical test of fitness, endurance, and determination. Consisting of cycling, swimming, and running portions, the sport is growing by leaps and bounds every day, with thousands of races held across the world each year. The reasons people sign up for triathlons are varied: some want to prove they can, others thrive […]
Spotlight on: Sassy and Classy Bridal Boutique
One of the most monumental milestones in a woman’s life is her wedding day; it’s a time for her to stand out as she celebrates her love for that special someone. Finding the perfect wedding dress is a key ingredient for a happy bride, and business owner Cleo Estrada has the knowledge and passion to […]

